Department of Nutrition and Family Studies

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Debra Hollingsworth, Head
Faculty: Chaumont, Fontenot, Gibbons, Quebedeaux, Robertson

Purpose

The mission of the Department of Nutrition and Family Studies parallels that of the College of Science and the University. The mission of the Department of Nutrition and Family Studies is to prepare students for successful careers in the areas of nutrition and family studies with a focus on:

• critical thinking skills;
• competency in communication;
• research principles and current research in the profession;
• community involvement and contribution to society;
• preparation for leadership roles in the profession and the community;
• incorporation of technology;
• preparation for graduate study.

Basic to this purpose (mission) is faculty commitment to excellence in teaching and advising, community involvement, and scholarly activity.

Curricula

The Nutrition and Family Studies curriculum has concentrations in Dietetics and Family and Child Studies. The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences accredits the department offerings. The Dietetics Concentration provides students with the competencies needed to apply to Dietetic Internships for careers as registered dietitians. The Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association has accredited the didactic program. The Family and Child Studies Concentration prepares students to work in a variety of careers dealing with child/human development and the family. Concentrations offer internships for Family and Child Studies and field experience in Dietetics.

Graduation Requirements

A student pursuing a Family and Consumer Sciences degree must earn a grade of “C” or better in all NUFS classes to meet all graduation and certification requirements. A student receiving an Associate in General Studies degree with a concentration in Family and Child Studies must earn a grade of “C” or better in all NUFS classes and meet all graduation and certification requirements.

Dietetic Internship (DI)—This postbaccalaureate program, administered by the Department of Nutrition and Family Studies has received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association (ADA). The purpose of the program is to enable those who meet the academic requirements to obtain greater than 900 hours of practice supervised by registered dietitians in medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and foodservice management to meet performance requirements for entry-level dietitians. Students who satisfactorily complete the DI will be able to take the national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

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